“We had started well, but there was a big difference in quality between the two teams. They have such great physical strength, technique and ability to cut through defences,” he told Sky Sport Italia.

“We tried to attack, as we usually do, but it was difficult to come here and get points. We gave away opportunities and that was something we could ill afford.

“In order to build a team, Sassuolo spent a certain amount of money and Juve spent far more. Therefore, it’s normal to see such a big gap.

“However, we cannot afford to make any mistakes in these situations and Juventus were superior. Without DomenicoBerardi, I didn’t have any alternatives for that side of the trident, so I changed system.

“Juventus play one-on-one even from the back three, so it’s not easy to play against the Bianconeri.”